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The Washington Capitals are reportedly looking to extend a longtime blueliner, as the club looks to remain competitive.
The Washington Capitals shook off a slow start to regain the form that led them to a Metro Division title last season. The Caps have been humming along, thanks in large part to Logan Thompson and his brilliant goaltending.
But there’s another key piece that the club will be looking to keep in the fold. That piece is veteran defenseman John Carlson. According to the Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta, the Capitals could be extending the 35-year-old at any time this season.
However, as Pagnotta noted, the negotiations have not yet taken place. As Pagnotta noted in his December 8 rumor piece:
“As far as Carlson’s concerned, the Capitals haven’t initiated contract discussions with him, thus far, but a conversation is expected at some point this season.”
The situation, it seems, hinges on the Capitals looking to bolster their lineup for another playoff run. It makes sense as this could be 40-year-old Alex Ovechkin’s last season. So, the Capitals will want to get as many pieces as they can to make a strong run.
Pagnotta provided the following insight into the potential negotiations:
“I am led to believe the conversation between Patrick and Carlson’s camp, once it occurs, will be quick, and contract negotiations should not be difficult.”
Carlson is in the final year of an eight-year, $64 million contract. He’s been one of the most productive NHL blueliners throughout his career. He won a Stanley Cup in Washington during the 2017-18 season. Moreover, he’s played his entire NHL career in Washington. That’s over 1,100 games, in which he’s notched 748 total career points.
Carlson Looking to End Career with Capitals
There is no indication that Carlson is looking to retire. The prevailing thought is that he can play a few more seasons. But it won’t be in any uniform. As Pagnotta noted:
“The sense I’ve gotten is he wants to keep his career with the Capitals going and the two sides will get down to business when it’s time to do so.”
If that’s indeed the case, Carlson will be continuing his NHL career in Washington. Considering the rising cap and the need to add talent, the two sides could find a happy medium that allows the Capitals to remain competitive.
No Free Agency for Carlson
The potentially booming 2026 free-agent market has gradually thinned out. None of the big names projected to hit the market next summer will be available. As such, Carlson could be one of the biggest names to go to market.
However, Carlson won’t be testing the market. Pagnotta made it clear that Carlson is unlikely to leave the Capitals in search of one final payday.
It’s worth pointing out that, unless Washington completely falls off a cliff this season, the team should remain competitive. So, it would make sense for Carlson to stay in DC in hopes of chasing another championship.
Plenty of teams would likely come calling on the right-shot blueliner. But the outcome could be Carlson staying put. The Capitals could well take care of other business before getting around to Carlson’s next contract.
Nestor Quixtan Seasoned NHL analyst and baseball writer focused on covering clubs across each league with news, analysis, and insights. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Nestor’s singular experiences and background have enabled him to bring a different take on the sports world as a whole. Nestor’s fondness for baseball and hockey set the tone for his love and passion for writing about sports. More about Nestor Quixtan
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